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Expanded workout facility begins to take shape

December 24, 2013 : By Drew Menard/Liberty University News Service

Construction is progressing on a 67,000-square-foot addition to Liberty University’s primary workout facility, the LaHaye Student Union. Structural steel and roofing is taking shape, giving character to the new façade. Work will continue through the spring and summer, and the facility is on track to open by the Fall 2014 semester.

“The expansion of the LaHaye Student Union allows our staff to provide even more wellness offerings to the Liberty family,” said Chris Misiano, senior director of Campus Recreation. “I am excited for the expansion to be complete so that we can expand our programming and services. The LaHaye Student Union will continue to be the hub on campus for those who pursue a healthy lifestyle.”

As well as the additions to the Student Union, 19,000 square feet of existing recreational space is undergoing renovations.

When completed, the expanded facility will include nearly triple the current cardio and strength training offerings, with more locker room space and a new 38-foot rock climbing wall. The addition also includes a mezzanine level where guests can workout while enjoying a stunning panoramic view of Liberty Mountain.

The current space will be transformed as well, with an above-ground track circling the basketball courts, six new multipurpose rooms in place of the current cardio/strength area, racquetball courts, and a new event space for Student Activities. The new entrance will have streamlined accessibility.

“The entire student population and our faculty and staff should be thrilled to have expanded wellness and fitness offerings that are going to be able to accommodate all fitness levels and all walks of life,” said Jamie Swyers, associate director of fitness.

Swyers added that there will soon be more classes offered during the busiest hours, as well as more space and less wait times during those peak times.

The expansion is designed to accommodate Liberty’s growing population well into the future.